I have the great pleasure of welcoming Historical Romance author and RoNA award nominated Jenni Fletcher to Chicks, Rogues and Scandals, so take a seat and let’s get to know a little about Jenni…

Jenni Fletcher was born on the north coast of Scotland and now lives in Yorkshire, where she writes Medieval, Roman and Victorian romance novels.She studied English at Cambridge University before doing an MA on Women and Literature inEnglish and a PhD on Victorian & Edwardian literature at Hull University. After realising that she was better at writing than teaching, she worked in a number of administrative jobs whilst trying to finish her first book, which was rejected. Thinking there must have been some mistake, she then wrote another, which was fortunately accepted by Harlequin Mills&Boon.She spends a large part of her day obsessing about things like the Oxford Comma and whether she uses exclamation marks too often (she does!) whilst getting distracted by Twitter. The rest of the time she drinks too much caffeine, eats too much chocolate, and tries not to drop crumbs into her keyboard.When not writing, obsessing or cleaning up after her children, she likes mountain biking, hiking and watching period dramas (her husband joins her for two of those). She knows nothing about sport or crime fiction, but can talk with authority on Minecraft, Star Trek (mainly Next Generation) and the Lord of the Rings. Her favourite Jane Austen novel is Persuasion and her favourite Brontë is Anne. If she had to choose a romantic hero it would be John Thornton, but maybe that’s just because she’s Northern.

Frankie Hi Jenni, Welcome to Chicks, Rogues and Scandals! Thank you for taking the time to chat with me today.

Firstly what five words would you use to describe yourself?

Jenni Technologically incompetent caffeine/chocolate addict.

Frankie If you could take a holiday in any era and place, When and where would it be? And Why?

Jenni I used to think the Wild West, but then I watched Westworld, so now I’d probably say the height of the Victorian era. I’d wear the biggest crinoline I could find and go to the Great Exhibition. Then I’d have Afternoon Tea (the greatest of all Victorian inventions).

Frankie Ooh, yes! Can you tell us a little about latest release? This can be your most recent or up-and coming release.

Jenni My next book is called ‘Captain Amberton’s Inherited Bride’ and is set in a faux-Medieval castle on the Yorkshire Moors above Whitby. It’s the second in my Victorian series and I wanted it to have a different feel to the first so I’ve gone a bit gothic. My heroine has spent her whole life being oppressed by her father and my hero is a reformed womaniser who’s just been invalided out of the Fusiliers. I don’t want to say too much, except that there’s a slow-speed horse and cart chase over the snowy Moors…

Frankie Now this sounds like my cup of tea, Yorkshire, Military heroes and Victorian, perfect! Who was your childhood hero?

Jenni Jane Russell. I used to pretend to be her character (Mike) in ‘Son of Paleface’. She was a cattle-rustler/saloon singer and I thought she was fabulous. Then I wanted to be Deanna Troi in Star Trek: The Next Generation. Apparently I like dark, sultry brunettes.

Frankie If you could have one of your books made into a film, which book would it be and who would play your lead characters?

JenniMy next book, which should hopefully be out later this year. I don’t have a title for it yet, but it’s set on Hadrian’s Wall in 197AD and there are some action scenes I’d like to see onscreen. My heroine would be played by Eleanor Tomlinson from Poldark and my hero would be Channing Tatum (looking exactly the way he does in The Eagle).

Frankie Oh, my!! 😉 Out of all your work, who is your favourite character and why?

Jenni Aediva from ‘Married to her Enemy’, just because she was my first heroine. Also she’s brave and feisty and fiercely protective of her family.

Frankie Where doe’s your inspiration for your books come from?

Jenni Sometimes from visiting castles (one of my favourite hobbies), sometimes from reading history books (‘Besieged and Betrothed’ came out of my interest in Stephen and Matilda) and sometimes just randomly. I’m working on a Regency that was inspired by a biscuit!

Frankie Ha,ha,ha! A biscuit? Intriguing, What three tip’s would you pass on to an aspiring author?

Jenni Read lots, don’t compare yourself to anyone else (easier said than done) and remember that we all get writer’s block sometimes.

Frankie If you were hosting a dinner party what three people would you invite? (They can be real/fictional, from any era)

JenniTwo of my favourite Medieval women, Empress Matilda and Eleanor of Aquitaine, just to see who was the biggest diva, and Dr Janina Ramirez. I met her at a book festival last autumn and she was lovely. She gave me a hug! She’s also incredibly smart – with fabulous taste in shoes – so a great role model for women all round.

(left to right: Matilda, Eleanor & Janina)

Frankie Ooh, I like, strong women putting the world to rights! 😉 Thank you, Jenni for taking the time out of your busy schedule to chat with me today, I have just one more cheeky question, just for fun . . . What is your all-time favourite naughty but nice food?

JenniRocky road. That way I get chocolate AND marshmallows! Thanks for having me. X

Oh, Yummy! Thank you Jenni.

***

Jenni’s up and coming release; Captain Amberton’s Inherited Bride is to be released on 22nd March.

‘Marry me…

…And you’ll have your freedom.’

Her father’s will dictates that Violet Harper must wed or be disinherited—but she’d rather face the wilderness of the wintry Yorkshire moors than be bound to cynical, damaged soldier Lance Amberton. Lance promises a marriage of convenience that will grant Violet her independence. In exchange she must put her faith in Lance, and see beyond his gruff exterior to the man beneath…

I have the pleasure to have Historical Fiction author; Mark Brownlow visiting Chicks, Rogues and Scandals today to chat, so take a seat and lets get to know a little about Mark…

Mark Brownlow is a British-born writer living in Vienna, Austria. His debut novel, Cake and Courtship, is a Regency romance narrated by Pride and Prejudice’s Mr Bennet. He has also written a novella, The Lovesick Maid, a cozy mystery set in Jane Austen’s fictional village of Hunsford. You can find Mark at LostOpinions.com , where he is known for his reimagining of classic literature as emails.

Science degrees from the Universities of Oxford, Aberdeen and Reading prefaced a short-lived career as a research academic. Since turning from facts to fiction, Mark has also worked as a translator, agony aunt, marketing consultant, journalist, business writer, web publisher and copywriter. None of which kept his soul happy in the way that creative writing does. When not writing, he works as a part-time lecturer in medical and scientific English at a local university.

If there is no pen to hand, he can be found watching his kids play football or sharing a glass of wine with his wife in front of a costume or historical drama.

Frankie Hi Mark, Welcome to Chicks, Rogues and Scandals! Thank you for taking the time to chat with me today.

Mark Thank you, Frankie, for letting me visit your wonderful blog.

Frankie Aw, your too kind, Firstly what five word’s would you use to describe yourself?

Mark I once asked my youngest son for his input on a similar question and the only polite answer he came up with was “unfocused”, so let’s call that “creative”. Reserved, peace-loving, whatever word describes “a constant battle between chronic over- and under-confidence”, and, well, tired.

More Edward Ferrars than Mr Darcy.

Frankie If you could take a holiday in any era and place, When and where would it be? And Why?

Mark I always envy those times when you could be active in different spheres of achievement or when there were great periods of optimistic change when anything seemed possible.

I was in the Beatles Museum recently and the early 60s seemed full of excitement. Perhaps 1900 in Vienna, just to hang around the coffee shops?

Let’s plump for late Regency England with some antibiotics and water purification tablets, plus a dozen diamonds sewn into my shirt. I could take lots of notes to save hours of research later. Then, if allowed to stay on after the holiday, I’d take a long trip around the capitals of Europe until the likes of Dickens and Darwin start work and I can have a few chats with them in London.

Frankie Ha,ha! I like it, Can you tell us a little about your latest release? This can be your most recent or up-and coming release.

Mark After writing a Regency romance novel (Cake and Courtship), I’ve stayed in the Austenesque world with a little mystery novella “starring” Charlotte Collins. In “The Lovesick Maid”, a young woman falls ill, but all is not what it seems. There’s a pinch of romance in there, too.

Charlotte is an interesting character because she fits in everywhere and nowhere, thanks to her unique position as the wife of the local clergyman. My goal was to write something you could enjoy and finish in a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea and a packet of chocolate biscuits.

Frankie How interesting, Who was your childhood hero?

Mark My memory is dreadful, but it was probably a two-way tie between Darth Vader and the Liverpool football team of the late 1970s and early 1980s. A model of Darth Vader still sits on my desk today.

Frankie If you could have one of your books made into a film, which book would it be and who would play your lead character’s?

MarkAn interesting question, as I tend to write while imagining a TV series unfolding before me. So I often have actors in mind. Cake and Courtship. With Matthew Macfadyen as Mr Bennet, once he hits his late forties, and the couple he’s trying to bring together would be played by a young Dan Stevens (as John Barton) and a young Audrey Hepburn (as Anne Hayter).

Frankie Oooh, that would be such a great film, Out of all your work, who is your favourite character and why?

Mark I have a soft spot for Mr Collins, but he’s Jane Austen’s character, not mine. He’s odious, but a comic delight with so much to offer a writer. Of my own characters: Anne Hayter. She’s sharp and intelligent, but kind with it.

Frankie Where doe’s your inspiration for your books come from?

Mark Given the genre, the original novels by Jane Austen. But otherwise I subscribe to Leonard Cohen’s view: “If I knew where the good songs came from, I’d go there more often.”

Having said that, I also like Terry Pratchett’s idea that “Particles of raw inspiration sleet through the universe all the time. Every once in a while one of them hits a receptive mind…” So I try to keep my mind receptive, and find beauty and interest in even the most mundane of things.

Frankie How interesting! What three tip’s would you pass on to an aspiring author?

Mark As a newcomer, I’d hesitate to offer any advice. But in terms of actually getting a novel finished…

Perseverance. Keep pushing at it. Keep moving forward.

Don’t get too distracted or intimidated by what everyone else is doing, saying and achieving.

Surround yourself with a few trusted people, particularly those that can help you become a better writer.

Frankie Those are wonderful tips, thank you! If you were hosting a dinner party what three people would you invite? (They can be real/fictional, from any era)

Mark This is tricky, because the people I’d most like to have dinner with probably wouldn’t get on with each other. So we’d have a lot of awkward silences and I would hide my embarrassment by drinking far more than is good for me.

I’ll pick Terry Pratchett, Jane Austen and Jürgen Klopp (a football manager). I’d love to hear the first two discuss their trade and both would be very amusing. After they leave, Jürgen and I can talk about football without worrying about boring the other guests.

Frankie Ha,ha,ha! I love that, Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to chat with me today, I have just one more cheeky question, just for fun . . . What is your all-time favourite naughty but nice food?

MarkThanks again for having me! And to answer your last question, well, I’m not a huge fan of cake (despite the title of my first novel). Salt and vinegar flavour crisps. They are now available locally here in Austria, massively improving my quality of life. Or maybe mint chocolate. Or strawberry pavlova with extra whipped cream. Mmmm.

Frankie That all sounds great, Thank you Mark!

Mark’s latest book the Love Sick Maid; A Pride and Predjudice Sequel is out now.

Join Charlotte Collins in a cozy mystery novella as she tackles the troubles of the Hunsford villagers.

One of the maids at Rosings Park is sick. But is there more to Mary Booth’s illness than a broken heart? Only Charlotte has enough wits about her to find the answer.

In this Pride and Prejudice sequel, Mark Brownlow brings Jane Austen’s Hunsford and Rosings Park to life. Meet familiar characters like the lovelorn Anne de Bourgh, Colonel Fitzwilliam, Mr Collins and, of course, Lady Catherine. Discover new faces, too, as Charlotte searches for the truth.

A quick and enjoyable Regency read for a lazy afternoon with tea and biscuits. Look out for more mysteries with Charlotte in future books.

A mistaken identity. A gruesome murder. Was it self-defense? Or Regicide?

Trained as a warrior, Brighit of Clan Cruadhlaoch despises the trappings and demands of womanhood…

Selfish dreams need to be set aside for the good of the clan, but a shocking murder only causes more turmoil. Especially as she stands accused. With no one else to turn to, can Brighit find escape in the arms of her new husband or will he require she reveal her inner most secrets?

Darragh of Clan MacNaughton is expected to follow his father into kingship but has little desire for the coveted title…

His willful wife is another matter. He has great desire for her. Despite her denial, he sees her womanly virtues and it sets him afire to know her, both body and soul. Will she resist his overwhelming need to possess all of her?

Firstly, I have to say this is why I love to read Medieval Romances, this is simply marvellous! York has a gift – I can grant you that – a gift for bringing to the world timeless, exhilarating and hugely romantic stories that bring to life a time where men were real men is the third book in The Derbfine Series, and it’s a scorcher. There is an arranged marriage with an very reluctant wife – who wants to be one of the boys – a murder mystery and blackmail all tied up with a very romantic bow.

A marriage between Brighit of Clan Cruadhlaoch and Darragh of Clan MacNaughton would unite their two clans, bring peace and secure peace with the other clans too, Darragh knows that marrying fiery tom-boy Brighit is going to be an interesting affair but he knows his duty and he knows just how important this truce is going to be for their kin but more than that he is inexplicably drawn to the little fiery temptress. Only thing is that this particular temptress has other ideas of what she wants – and it’s not him!

…When he finally broke the intoxicating kiss, he was breathing hard. “Oh Brighit. Never believe I would compare ye to another . Ye will not be found lacking because I will teach ye the only things ye need to know.”“Ye will teach me ?”

Brighit was raised by her father; Sean, the King of Clan Cruadhloach as a warrior, she has always had the opportunity to do exactly what she wished, her father pandered to her every whim that is until she reached maturity and she began to be treated with kiddie gloves because she was a woman. Being the daughter of the King, she knows that one day she would have to what is required of her, that day comes far to early for her liking with animosity rife amongst the clans the best way to bring peace is for two of the most powerful clans to unite which means that she now has to marry the very man she loathes.

Brighit decides that if she is to be chained to that man for the rest of her life she wants her last chance of freedom, she persuades her uncle to take her along on one of his legendary raiding parties. Only for what should have been an easy – and in Brighit’s mind, fun – mission turns sour and dangerous when they are unexpectedly set on and thing’s turn very nasty indeed, when someone of import is killed – leading to event’s that changes everything for all parties.

When I first met Brighit I thought she was extremely spoilt, she has had everything she has ever wanted and when someone says no to her she gets mardy and starts doing what a lot of toddlers do and has a tantrum. But the more I got to know her I saw her in a different light, I think she is a bit of a lost, confused little girl who is wanting everyone’s approval – but especially her father’s. Yes, she is very impulsive she runs in to things with eyes shut and without thinking, which always gets her into trouble it’s not until her life is actually at risk that she starts to realise that she has been going about things all wrong.

The relationship – or lack of it –between Brighit and Darragh is very one sided, Darragh does love her he wants to do the best for her and he genuinely wants to be a good husband. He knows he will never be King in his own right, and that does pray on his mind especially she Brighit comes from that world. I think under that roguish warrior’s pride there is a sensitive and very real man who just want to settle down.

…..Breaking the kiss, she seemed to purr in his ear. “I have wanted ye something fierce…..”

I do like Darragh, he isn’t what I would have thought of a warrior he is a lot calmer and serene than most men in his role, he is wants to live a very simple life – get married, have children and maybe have his own farmstead but obviously his position as a ri’s son makes that dream difficult for him and he definitely never thought he would want all that with Brighit.

They haven’t even been married twenty-four hours before thing’s take a deadly turn, when Brighit is embroiled in a blackmail attempt because of what happened, dare she finally put aside her distaste for her husband and tell him everything? In the meantime, while she is making herself sick with worry, Darragh is slowly becoming more and more frustrated by his wife’s lack of civility towards him. It is only due them getting stuck in a storm while she is ill, that he finally learns her feeling towards him. They are an odd couple at first but soon her feelings for him grows into something other than hate, and into something earthier, more natural and it is then that the story becomes a lot hotter – sizzling hot! 😉

“A moment,” Darragh kept hold of her hand, though he moved it to his heart, when she would have stood. “Ye cannot know what ye mean to me.” Her breath caught…

I will admit that at first, I wasn’t taken with Brighit, she came across as a pampered, spoilt princess, she was a slow burner for me and I did at first think that luscious, lovely Darragh deserved better, but I was proven wrong. Thanks to York’s remarkable writing my view on Brighit was replaced by awe for this incredibly brave woman. This has everything I have come to expect from Ms York, a stonking great story that grasp’s your imagination and takes you on a thrilling journey in another time with her usual flawless and signature passion for the era, her excellent knowledge and gift for drawing the reader in to a story that has depth, intrigue and above all York’s distinctive and impressive romance throughout.

I do love this series, and this one is wonderful.

Daughter of The King is to be released 17th March and can be pre-ordered now on Amazon.

An epic tale of an enduring love, powerful enough to survive time and circumstance. Two souls destined to be halves of a whole, but fated to be kept apart. And yet, a love such as this is not content to blindly accept the bonds of fate…

Nathaniel can hardly recall a time he hasn’t adored Madeline. For Madeline, he truly is her knight in shining armour. Alas, one stolen night is all they are granted before Madeline is given in marriage to the wealthy and titled Earl of Marbourne, who is a great favourite of the king. A whirlwind of intrigue and contrivance follows Madeline as she joins the court and catches the eye of the king, whilst cruel fate conspires to keep Madeline and Nathaniel apart despite their desperate love.

This is the second book by Ms Snow and it is so different to that what I have read before, this is a lot lighter then I had come to expect from her, but in no way lacking. The story of two star crossed lovers torn apart by circumstance and life is endearing.

Nathanial is the low born son of one of lady Elspeth’s maids, his lordship; John of Alwinsopp was a decent man and gave Nathanial opportunities that in any other household he would never have been able to achieve; such as getting the education that only an aristocrat could afford, and it is through close contact and practically living with the family that he and Lord John’s only daughter; Lady Madeline became best friends. Nathanial and Madeline first had a loving brother/sister relationship but after various events they both came to realise that they actually love one and other. So, when her father decides that now is the time that his free-spirited daughter to marry they are both distraught over their imminent separation.

Madeline knows that she will never love any man the ways she does Nate and so on the eve of her wedding to a man she has just met, she persuades Nate to let her have just one night with him, one night with the man she loves where she can just be herself. Nate cannot believe that Madeline came to him, but he knows that this could be the last time he ever sees her, so he gives her what she wants – what they both want. It is tender and loving, all their feelings for each other just comes pouring out of the page you can really feeling their angst at the situation that they are in.

Nate isn’t a complicated man, he likes simplicity I think he would like to see the world as black and white/right and wrong, but he soon learns that life isn’t always like, so he does what he knows is right and protects the one woman he loves above his very life. He is a wonderful character, he’s very quiet and unassuming a man who will always do what is needed of him.

Her mother; Lady Elspeth is a spiteful and somewhat selfish creature who has disliked and resented Madeline just because she wasn’t born a son, the son Lady Elspeth wanted so much. Now the moment has arrived that she is to be rid of the daughter that she never wanted, and she goes about it in her usual spiteful and somewhat humiliating way for Madeline, her mother cannot wait to push Madeline into the arms of her intended.

Her betrothed; the Earl of Marbourne is a good man – true the only reason he did want to wed her is to get some heirs, but he is a kind and generous man who I think does have a real fondness for his young wife. But their married life doesn’t go smoothly, firstly there is resentment for their union from the Earl’s current heir and then with the earl being close to the King, Madeline soon finds herself under the hawk like gaze and attention of the King himself. Soon Madeline finds herself in some tricky situations with the King and with her new husband falling ill and all the while, all she can think of is her true love Nate.

Overruled by Fate is very Tristen and Isolde, two loves who you know are supposed to be together are cruelly torn apart and kept apart by each of their own destiny’s. I love how throughout the story their love for each other is absolute, there is no question of their feeling for each other. Even when they each find themselves heading in different directions in their heart they will only be whole when the other one is near.

Over all this is yet another winner in my eyes, Ms Snow has shown that she can easily handle a multitude of different eras with sharpness and tact. I found that this is a lot lighter in tone, it’s not as dark and gritty as I have come to expect from her, but it’s a thoughtful and complex story that has a lot of miner story lines entwined into the bigger picture that keeps you engrossed.

Very much highly recommended, Ms Snow is proving what a skilful writer she is.

Overruled by Fate is released on 22nd February and can be pre-ordered now at Amazon.

As a female warrior, Dagmar Kolbeinndottar knows she’s not meant for marriage and a family. Until she’s kidnapped by Celtic warlord Aedan mac Connall, who has been tasked with returning Dagmar to her estranged father. Fighting her father’s orders to marry, Dagmar declares she will take no one but her abductor, expecting Aedan to refuse…

But he’s intent on making her his bride!

Oh, my!! What a fantastic read, I do have a real soft spot for Medieval/Viking Romances and this is terrific. Warriors Viking Bride is a edge of seat, seductive read that captures your imagination and takes you on a wonderous journey through a time that was dangerous but also highly sexy. I have read so many great thing’s about Michelle Style’s writing and I am ashamed to say that this is the first of her work I have read, but that will be remedied from now on as I have become transfixed with her smooth and articulated writing.

When Dagmar was just a child her father returned home with another woman, who would be his next wife. Dagmar is heartbroken when her father tells her mother to leave, but Dagmar would be staying under the watchful eye of her “new” mother. Dagmar’s mother fight’s tooth and nail to keep her daughter – which isn’t surprising seeing as she is a great warrior in her own right – and after a vicious battle between her two, beloved parent’s, Dagmar and her mother flee in the night never to look on her father and her childhood home ever again.

“You’re a good warrior, Gael. Your timing is impeccable,” she said awkwardly, holding out her hand “I’m honoured to be a part of your Felag.”

Years later, after the death of her beloved mother, Dagmar is now the “Shield Maiden” she is a warrior in her own right and one not to be messed with. She is known as the painted warrior with snakes in her hair, as she paints her face blue – a swirl for every battle she has fought in and her long hair is plaited in way to look like snakes, only her mother and her oldest friend know the truth, but Dagmar knows that people believing her snake haired ruse will keep unwanted people at bay. Especially now since her mother died, enemies are everywhere those that she is fighting against and those within her camp all wanting to take her position as leader of the Felag. Even her own father and his new wife have been known to send out assassins. So, when one day another warrior turns up on the day of her next and hopefully final battle, claiming he from her father and wants to talk she is instantly alert – usually she would just dispatch them and send the remains back to her father, but something about this one makes her stop, he seems different somehow. Before she can decide what to do she is in battle where everything goes wrong, and her life changes forever.

The invincible warrior was a shield which hid this frightened woman. He hated to think what she must have faced as a young girl. “It’ll be fine, Dagmar,’ he said. “Your safe. Ill protect you. You’ve done enough.”

She gave an indistinct murmur and snuggled closer. Laid her head on his chest and pinned him down, every time he tried to move, she followed.

Keeping an arm around her, he took off his cloak and spread it over them both. He instantly smiled in her sleep….

Dagmar is a complicated woman she has multiple of layer’s that makes this woman fascinating and lovable. I do like strong decisive heroines who put the heroes into their places, women who have a brain and know exactly how to use it and who do what they want, when they want and women who strive for that equality. Dagmar is that in a nutshell, she is a warrior in her own right, and she isn’t afraid of showing those around her exactly who is the boss. She also has a very vulnerable side to her personality, she was hugely affected by her parent’s actions when she was a child and that has caused a lot of trust issues, especially regarding men.

Aeden has been charged to collect Dagmar and take her to her father, he has sworn to himself that he won’t ever fall in love and take a bride. That’s until he meets Dagmar, she infuriates the hell out of him with her stubbornness and argumentative streak and yet, she seems to sooth his torn and shattered heart. He has made a promise to her father that he won’t touch her as her father has plans of his own for his daughter, but that proves too hard for the usually stoic warrior to do. The only reason that he is even doing this task is because he has no choice, if he wants to save his people, then he must take the angry, volatile and fragile Dagmar to her father – which really is easier said than done. Aeden is a warrior in his own right, he is a proud, resilient man who doesn’t let anything get in his way, if he can help it and especially not a beautiful and infuriating woman.

Aedan is a deep-thinking man, who was thrown unceremoniously into this duty. He is a bit of a lone wolf, he will do what is needed of him but after various trials that he had to go through, he has become rather cynical with other people and their motives, the only person he trust’s is himself and his dog; Mor. I love the addition of Mor to the story, the gentle giant for me is a crucial part of the story and of bringing these two vulnerable and hugely cynical people together.

He gave a crooked smile. “I’m the one who can see your face in the morning dawn, I’m the one who makes the judgement about your beauty, not you.”

Every particle of her was aware of him, a great ache filled her insides. Aeden in this mood was dangerous in a way that he hadn’t been before. She forced a laugh. “You walked into an army with just a dog for protection, your judgement is suspect.”

“But, it remains mine,” he gave a soft laugh which made her insides melt…

The relationship between Dagmar and Aedan is steamy and raw, they are actually very much a like and those similar traits does cause them to head bump each other, on numerous occasion’s and yet when they start to learn each other’s history and personal trails, they have a mutual respect for each other. But that doesn’t mean that everything is going to be all rosy, Aeden and Dagmar have a lot of obstacles to get past.

Ms Styles has created an original and I found it to be a very moving story about moving on, and second chances. The storyline is a wonderful blend of romance and action with that seductive and mysterious quality that you only get from the Medieval era. I think Ms Styles has got Aeden and Dagmar spot on, they are both highly charged individuals who need the other in each of their lives.

This is so good, I cannot recommend it more.

This was an ARC copy via the author in exchange for an honest review.

Warriors Viking Bride is to be released on 22nd February and can be pre-ordered now at Amazon.

Widowed Lady Eleanor Peyton has chosen a life of independence. Living alone on her rocky coastal outcrop, she’s cut herself off from the world of men—until William Rudhale saves her life and demands a kiss!

As steward to Lady Eleanor’s father, Will knows the desire he burns with is futile—but he’ll still wager he can claim Eleanor’s kiss by midwinter. Yet when the tide turns Will realizes vulnerable Eleanor is far too precious to gamble with.

Can he win his lady before it’s too late?

This is another delightfully fun, high octane and emotionally deep book from Elisabeth Hobbes, and one that I hugely enjoyed.

Eleanor Payton after the death of her husband has now decided on living the rest of her life in solitude, she has always vied for more independence and now she has it, she wants to prove that she doesn’t need a man in her life to take charge. Eleanor knows that her peaceful, quiet – if lonely existence – will one-day end, if her parents have their way. Even though she is a widow and living on her own mean’s, they still meddle into her life at every opportunity and they have made it abundantly clear that she must re-marry. Even though she is now in a horrendous position Eleanor being the tough cookie that she is has vowed that no matter who her family push in her direction she will not yield to them. That is until she meets her father’s new steward.

When she first meets William Rudhale, he first saves her life and being the rogue that he is demands a kiss for payment she thinks him nothing but a scoundrel. A handsome one at that, who as irritating and infuriating as he is, she can’t stop herself from thinking about him. Eleanor is a spirited young woman, she is stubborn and highly picky but underneath all that gutsy bravado lies a young woman who just wants to be loved. She wants the thing that alludes so many other’s she wants a true marriage where she can love and be loved and be happy.

‘You can let go of me now,’ she muttered. The horseman’s eyes crinkled. ‘I could,’ he said, ‘though I just saved your life. There must be some benefits to rescuing a beautiful maiden in distress and holding her until she stops shaking is one of them. I suppose a kiss of gratitude is out of the question?’

Well, what can I say about Will? He is such a great character. Strong – not just in body but in body but in mind too, canny and rough around the edges. He is grafter, he knows the concept of hard work. Because of his knowledge, his determination to prove himself and his wit and boyish – if sometimes serious – charm he has made a name for himself, his had got a sold intelligent head on his shoulders, he has pulled himself up from practically nothing and slogged hard to make something of himself and all that grit and stamina has worked as he is now head a steward at his young age, plus various little off shoots in wine that not just bring him extra income but greater respect from people who would normally look down their noses at him. This man is such a keeper, he may have a brusque rudeness about him at times, but that just adds to his appeal. Hobbes has got Will spot on, he is the thing that keeps me glued to the book.

Will think’s that the wager he accepts to steal a kiss from Eleanor before midwinter is going to be a piece of cake, after all he has seen the way she blushes in his presence and he knows how she watch’s him how her eyes have more than once taken in every aspect of his body. So, he gladly takes on the wager – after all you can never have too many sheep.? But as he begins to woo her, he finds that she is not at all what she said seems. She isn’t the thick-skinned, fiery woman he first thought her to be. She is vulnerable and looks at life and him with eyes which are filled with suspicion and something else…fear!

‘Why did you come?’ she asked instead. ‘To protect you, of course,’ William answered. He sounded surprised that she had to ask. ‘What other motive do you suspect me of?’‘I don’t need your protection,…..’…She drew the dagger from its scabbard and brandished it aloft. ‘I won’t hesitate to use this if I need to.’ William stopped laughing abruptly and his face became solemn. ‘I’m sure you won’t…’

As a couple they go through so many emotions, from furious and irritated to scared and distrustful. Then there are the sneaky glances with heated eyes the lustful stares and the little touches, the atmosphere crackles around them. The way that they move from lady and steward to a lusty and caring couple is very beautiful, the slow burning only makes them even more alluring and when they do give in – even with a small touch – it is worth the wait. They are a cute couple.

The only thing I do have to say against it is, the first chapter is a bit of a slow burner for me, up until we meet Will – who for me is the driving force of this book. Don’t get me wrong there is absolutely nothing wrong with the book before we are introduced the Will as Hobbes does a great job at building up Eleanor’s past for you to understand her story and her character.

I did really enjoy the story itself, I know that Hobbes says this is more of a Christmas book and I can really see that, it isn’t as dark or heavy as the other books I have read from her – which is what I have come to expect from medieval romance, and it’s a pleasant change. It’s different but in an entirely good way. It’s a great read and as we’ve to come to expect from Hobbes, she sprinkles her unique charm across it and she has created an alluring and thoughtful story.

The Wager for the Widow is perfect for those starting out in medieval romance and those who have just come across Elisabeth Hobbes, it’s a fresh and classy romance with that medieval edgy-ness that I love about this era, as always with this author, highly recommended.

This was a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Wager for the Widow is put now and can be found in all retail outlets including Amazon.

Ruthless warrior Lothar the Frank has laid siege to Castle Haword, but there’s a fiery redhead in his way — and she’s not backing down!

More tomboy than trembling maiden, Lady Juliana Danville would rather die than lose the castle. Caught on opposite sides of a war, Lothar and Juliana find a marriage bargain is being brokered to bring peace.

But is blissful married life possible when Juliana has a dangerous secret hidden within the castle walls…?

I will open my review with just one word; Wow! What a terrific read, I will apologise for the amount of gushing I will most likely be doing about this book, but I have so much to say about it. Jenni Fletcher has real out done herself with this, it is such a compelling and highly charged romance that grips you from that very first page where our bulking, tank of a hero spots the fiery haired, tomboy on the battlements. I was literally hooked, and I was eager to finish and yet when I did turn the last page it was a sobering moment as that was it, done. I could’ve read this again as soon as I had finished. It’s fun, witty and at times heart-breaking, and fabulously engrossing. I just love it.

She looked like a Celtic Queen, rebellious and undaunted, the long coils of her red hair tumbling loose over the parapet wall in front of her, the only splash of colour against drab, unrelenting grey.For a fleeting moment he found himself wishing that they were on the same side of the battlements….

In a time when King Stephen and Empress Matilda were at logger head’s over the country, the mighty Castle Howard is the foot hold that both of them want, it is currently under the protection of the Danville family – or more accurately, the Chatelaine; Lady Julianna Danville. Julianna – after the death of her father and her re-alliance with Stephan – has been holding off a siege from Matilda’s army for months. Her army is on their last legs, their supplies are practically none existent they are all exhausted, starving and hiding a terrible secret within the walls of her castle, a secret so bad that if anyone finds out it could mean terrible repercussions for her and her men. When the menacing, hardened warrior with the most mesmerizing grey eyes and a body a god could only dream about turns up to do the Empresses bidding, and finally take back Castle Howard, Julianna knows that she is in terrible trouble.

Julianna is a spirited young woman, her out bound personality is hardened and steel like and just as fiery as her hair, she is a warrior in her own right being the Chatalaine of Castle Howard she is just as brusque and strong as that of her loyal men. They respect her for who she is not just because she is the Chatalaine but she has proved herself to them again and again just what a courageous force of nature she is. But when she closes her chamber door on the world she is a frightened, cynical young girl who has the weight of the world on her skeletal shoulder’s, she knows that she can’t keep up the siege for much longer but being a gentle and caring woman, she doesn’t want her faithful men – men who have been with her since she was a child – to be harmed. Like Lothar she too just needs someone to take a bit of the burden from her and look after her.

“Perhaps you’ll allow me to show you, while my horse is resting?”….….She wasn’t accustomed to acting the lady either – she couldn’t remember even the last time a man had offered her his arm – and yet somehow she couldn’t resist temptation.“Very well.”She placed a hand on his bicep, twisting her face away as a thrill of excitement raced through her body…

Lothar the Frank – isn’t that a great name? – Is there to do one job; take Castle Howard for his Empress. He is a career soldier since Matilda took a shine to him when he was a boy and took him in to her court, he is the best soldier in Matilda’s army and with his handful of select men he has broken more sieges than he can count and this one will be no different – or so he thinks! As soon as he spot’s the windblown beautiful, fiery red-head on the battlements of the castle, Lothar has the distinct impression that Lady Julianna is more than what she appears. After knowing and fighting alongside her father; William, Lothar knows that any daughter of the great Lord Danvilles’ will be a force of nature and deep down he is relishing the thought of just meeting her once.

My goodness, Lothar just maybe one of my favourite heroes from this year. I like how isn’t a lord but just a regular soldier who has worked damn hard to get where he is, he has gone through so much in life already and those past experiences have shaped him into this wonderous man he is. He is highly respected by his little band of men, I have always thought you can really gleam an idea of a man by what his men think of him and his leather, black clad warriors would die for their fearless leader. He is the finest warrior, he hasn’t gained that title by the amount of battles he has won but by how he goes about thing’s he is a very moral man who doesn’t like injustices and if he can he will always try to win the battle peacefully. Then there is his well-hidden tender side that he keeps wrapped up, he is a thoughtful and caring man who really just wants someone to care for him.

Finally, after an attempted kidnapping, a drugging and more arguments than what you would get at a family Christmas, the siege ends. Lothar thinks that he has won and he has done his duty with a single person getting hurt and he is ready to pack up and leave for his next assignment, but he can’t bring himself to leave the fragile Julianna especially as he knows she is keeping something from him. Something doesn’t quiet add up so against his better judgement he stays and as he slowly breaks through her personal defences he finds out things – not just about her, but about himself – that shocks him.

I love the enemies to lover’s trope and this is superb, their relationship from the first moment of meeting just sizzles and creates a fun, exciting and enticing love story. They go through some much inner turmoil; their bickering is just as much fun to read as their tender moments – especially when she threatens to hang him by his feet over the battlements and he asks if he can wear his boots – you just have to read it!

“There. Now don’t take it off for a few hours and no playing with swords for the meantime.”“Playing?”“Yes,” her eyes glinted with humour, “But if you must, remember the sharp end is the end to avoid.”“I’ll try to remember that, now have your finished laughing at my misfortune?”“Almost.” She sat back on her haunches, though still she didn’t release his hand. “You can’t blame me for enjoying one small victory, I haven’t won many of late.”He gave a low chuckle, “Then, I’m glad I’ve made you feel better.”“You have,” she tilted her head to the side again, “You know I’ve never heard you laugh before.”“It happen’s, but not very often…”

Fletcher is really coming into her own in the medieval genre and her real and skilled writing is rivalling the best in the business, her writing is vivid, intelligent and atmospheric. I knew from her debut novel that here was an author that had so much to share with us and who would go far and again she has confirmed that initial thought. I love how at the beginning of the book she gives a brief history lesson into the story of Matilda, I will admit that I didn’t know that much about her before, but since reading this I am very eager to learn more about the Empress that for me is the proof of a great author where they make you want to go out and start learning the history behind their work.

I love it, Besieged and Betrothed is just so good and one that will take pride of place on my book shelf forever and I cannot recommend this enough. This will appeal to all romance readers, not just those of us who have a certain penchant for medieval this should be read by all.

It really is perfect.

This was an ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Besieged and Betrothed is out 30th November and can be pre-ordered now at Amazon.

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